Owning a jet ski is something to be proud of for most people. Not only are they a lot of fun, but they’re also a great way to get around. According to the National Marine Manufacturers Association, jet skis are growing in popularity. Sales have increased by more than 25% in the past five years. That’s because people realize just how much fun they are.
Jet skis are also a great way to stay active. They provide a good workout and are perfect for getting out on the water. Whether you’re looking for a way to have fun or stay active, a jet ski can be an ideal investment.
However, a jet ski is a costly asset you must protect to keep it running well for years to come. As a result, you might have to make a few adjustments to your home or your schedule. Here are a few things to remember if you’re a jet ski owner.
Create a Parking Space at Home
A jet ski might cost around $10,000 on average. That’s a lot of money to spend on something that will sit in your garage. As a result, you need to create a designated parking space for your jet ski.
If you live near water, you might be able to keep your jet ski at a dock. However, you will have to lock it up to prevent theft. You should also invest in a cover to protect it from the elements.
If you don’t have access to a dock, you’ll need to find a spot in your yard or driveway to keep your jet ski. Make sure the area is level and has good drainage. You don’t want your jet ski sitting in water or mud.
If you have to take it to your home, you should consider building a storage shed. This will protect your jet ski from the weather and keep it out of sight. However, transporting your jet ski back and forth to the water can be a hassle if you don’t have a trailer. Fortunately, you can invest in a durable side-by-side trailer to make things easier.
Invest in the Right Accessories
In addition to a storage shed or trailer, you’ll need to invest in other accessories for your jet ski. These include:
- A life jacket: When jet skiing, you should always wear a life jacket. Many states require it by law.
- A fire extinguisher: A fire extinguisher is a must-have in an emergency.
- An anchor: An anchor will keep your jet ski in place if you need a break.
- A cover: A cover will protect your jet ski from the sun and weather when it’s not in use.
Those accessories will help you keep your jet ski in good condition and make it easier to use. It might mean more investments, and you’ll be glad you made them when your jet ski is still running years later.
Know the Laws and Regulations
Before you hit the water, you need to know the laws and regulations for jet skis in your state. Some states have age limits for operating a jet ski. Others require that you take a safety course. And all states have laws about where you can and cannot handle a jet ski.
You can find out the laws and regulations by contacting your state’s parks and recreation department. You can also check with the Coast Guard.
Failing to follow the laws can result in expensive fines. In some cases, you might even have your jet ski impounded. Ensure you know the rules before heading out on the water to avoid problems.
Get Insured
Just like your car, your jet ski needs to be insured. Your homeowner’s insurance might cover it if stored on your property. But you’ll need to check with your insurer to be sure.
You can purchase a separate policy if your homeowner’s insurance does not cover your jet ski. Jet ski insurance is not required in all states, but it’s a good idea. It can protect you from liability if you damage someone else’s property or injure another person.
You can get jet ski insurance through your boat insurance company or a ski-specific insurer. The cost of the policy will depend on factors like the make and model of your jet ski and where you live.
Take Care of Your Jet Ski
As a jet ski owner, you must take care of your investment. That means regular maintenance and repairs as needed. You should also winterize your jet ski if you live in an area with cold winters.
You might want to join a jet skiing club to keep your jet ski in tip-top shape. These clubs offer discounts on parts and services. They also provide a community of fellow jet ski enthusiasts to talk to about your shared passion.
Final Thoughts
Owning a jet ski is a big responsibility. But it can also be a lot of fun. Make sure you take care of your jet ski and follow the laws. Then you can enjoy many hours on the water with family and friends.
